How to Apply to the RNFA Program

To secure your spot in the next RN First Assistant course session, please begin the online application process as soon as possible. You will be able to save and come back to your application as you submit various materials. There is a $50 fee to apply.

Start your application

RNFA Program Cost

• $4,000 plus travel expenses, books, and $35 health fee (not due at time of application)

RNFA Application Deadlines

The RN First Assistant program is offered three times a year. Preference is given to those who already have a placement agreement and those who already have CNOR/APRN certification.

Program Eligibility

• Have a US or Canadian RN license
• Have a bachelor's degree in nursing
• Be certified as a CNOR or APRN (nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, or nurse anesthetist), or be eligible for certification and pass the certification exam before the end of the course. If not certified as a CNOR or APRN upon admission, proof of certification must be submitted before a certificate of completion is awarded.

Application Requirements

To complete an application for the RNFA Course, create an account and complete all sections of the application. Submit the following materials by uploading them to your application before the deadline:

• US or Canadian RN license
• Proof of CNOR or APRN certification, or of eligibility for certification
  • Acceptable proof of CNOR includes:
    • CNOR certification card
    • Proof of test date (or eligibility to test) from CCI
    • Letter from OR nurse manager on hospital letterhead stating you meet criteria to test
  • Acceptable proof of APRN (nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse anesthetist) includes:
    • National certification card
    • Proof of test date (or eligibility to test) from APRN certifying body
    • Official transcript for your NP program with anticipated graduation date
    • Official letter of good standing from Registrar of your NP program including anticipated graduation date
• Copy of bachelor's diploma or unofficial transcript showing the completion of a bachelor's degree in nursing
• CV or resume
• CPR certification (BCLS or ACLS)
• Two letters of recommendation: one from an OR manager or surgeon, and  one from a nursing peer
• Information for a Clinical Placement Agreement. See details about the Clinical Placement Agreement process.
• Board-certified Surgeon Letter of Commitment. See requirements for Surgeon Letter of Commitment.